A Family's Guide to the Military For Dummies

Your personal how-tohandbook for living yourbest life as a military family

Looking for a clear, concise guide to military life? Whether you're new to the armed forces or planning your latest relocation, this plain-English handbook has expert tips for overcoming the challenges and taking advantage of the benefits unique to life in the military. From living on a base to financial planning to deployment, you'll see how to find all the support your family needs.

• Grasp the boot camp basics — understand rank and military hierarchy, find your way around a base, and connect with others in the community

• Take charge of your finances — decipher military compensation, handle your taxes, build credit, and invest for your family's future

• Understand your military benefits — obtain health and dental insurance, utilize the family support centers, explore retirement benefits, and more

• Raise a happy family — from housing and childcare to education and recreation, take advantage of all the military offers

• Handle deployments — prepare for deployment, help children cope, stay connected with your loved one, and manage stress and anxiety

• Transition out of the military — assess the financial benefits, retire from service, and plan for your next career

Open the book and find:

• An overview of military versus civilian lifestyle

• Your place in the military structure

• Educational and employment opportunities

• Family support centers, groups, and associations

• The best benefits for military spouses

• How to avoid scams against service members

• A family's guide to military acronyms

• Programs outside the military you can turn to for support